Tennessee-based six-piece ChameleouS showcase a sprawling psych-rock enjoyment on debut album Wicked Din, blending modern classic rock, Southern swing, roots, and jam influences. Crafted by experienced musicians, the record embraces dynamic song structures, expansive instrumentation, and a dedication to albums as complete artistic journeys.
A rhythm-heavy introduction kicks off the album on “I Knew,” which quickly swells from panting percussion and moody bass to sweltering, bluesy guitar tones. “I knew you were in here, here’s what I came to say,” a declarative lead delivery emerges, with smatterings of piano adding to the fervent rock mix. A momentary pause arises prior to an ardent “nothing here to fear!” exclamation, continuously impressing in its tonal shifts between sturdy psych-rock familiarity and more free-flowing allure, especially evident past the three-minute mark as wailing guitars drive into the “I know this mountain makes you fear, love” lead-driven climax. This is a striking opening track that is wonderfully exemplary of the band’s knack for passionate, evolving song structures and stylish rock charisma.
A similarly dynamic pull shows on “Kiss Hello,” which spans 7+ minutes of textured psych-rock enthrallment, traversing from debonair melodic beginnings to more upfront personality. The approach to midpoint compels particularly in the twangy guitar work and spacey backing effects. The album’s title track arrives next, thumping along into bass-forward intrigue and simmering guitar tones before chugging into a suave entrance: “I heard the mission bells / Tolling to keep out Hell.” Glistening organs and hazy guitar work complement doses of escalated melodic entrancement, with an interplay of synths and guitar gripping at the two-minute turn and leading into a delectably eerie choral procession. Wicked Din is a fantastic psych-rock success from ChameleouS.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
